2017 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · CB04 BEC

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 25 August 2026, but the overall maintenance trend indicates a pattern of recurring mechanical issues rather than proactive upkeep. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent pass record, the presence of identical advisories regarding the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints in both 2025 and 2026 suggests that these components have been allowed to degrade over a prolonged period without replacement. This trend implies that maintenance may be reactive, addressing issues only when they reach a failure threshold rather than servicing them when first identified. The recorded mileage of 118,769 miles over approximately nine years equates to an annual average of roughly 13,200 miles. This represents relatively high usage for a premium executive vehicle, suggesting it has been a regular commuter or long-distance cruiser. While consistent mileage is often preferable to long periods of standing, the high cumulative total means that the vehicle is entering a phase of life where major wear-and-tear items, including suspension bushings, dampers, and drivetrain components, are likely to require significant investment to maintain optimal roadworthiness and refinement. You should pay particular attention to the front suspension during your inspection. The recurring advisory for play in the front lower suspension arm ball joints is a primary concern. On your test drive, listen for any rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as this is a hallmark symptom of worn ball joints. Additionally, pay attention to the steering response; any looseness, wandering, or a lack of precision in the steering wheel could indicate that the play in these joints has progressed. Failure to rectify this will lead to accelerated tyre wear and could eventually compromise the steering geometry. The braking system also requires a thorough assessment. Given the previous advisories regarding worn front brake discs in 2024 and thin rear brake pads in 2022, you must verify whether these parts have been replaced. During the test drive, check for any brake shudder or vibration through the pedal, which can signify warped discs, and listen for any metallic grinding or squealing that indicates the pads are depleted. Finally, because of the high mileage, I strongly advise checking the service history for evidence of scheduled fluid changes, specifically for the gearbox and cooling systems, and inspecting the underside for any signs of fluid leaks or excessive corrosion that may have been obscured by the under trays mentioned in previous inspections.